I believe that each situation must be examined separately because there is a different explanation for each one.
For 2002-2003, based on the information we have on this point, this contract caused major concerns, particularly regarding deadlines. There was a six-month deadline for a nine-month contract. It was impossible to get to the certification stage, and, in the meantime, costs mounted. That raised some red flags at that time. This point was raised in the consultants' reports, and Mr. Hession and HLB confirmed that the contract entailed risks. So officials acted on the basis of the information that was available at that time. They did so in good faith, based on their interpretation of the Treasury Board policy.
Mr. Ganim, who is here with me, was the Director General of Finance at that time. He'll be able to provide you with additional explanations.